Leather Working Group (LWG) Certification in Saudi Arabia
Leather Working Group (LWG) Certification is a globally recognized standard that sets environmental, social, and operational requirements for leather manufacturing. It supports sustainability and promotes responsible practices across the global leather supply chain. The LWG Leather Manufacturer Audit (P7) became mandatory in 2021. Since then, more than 2,000 facilities in over 60 countries have adopted it.
In Saudi Arabia, the demand for sustainable leather manufacturing is growing. Businesses, tanneries, and traders aim to meet international expectations for quality, traceability, and environmental compliance. Qdot provides complete LWG consultancy in Saudi Arabia, helping companies comply with the latest LWG Audit Standard (P7) and join global supply chains.
The Structure of LWG Certification
LWG has developed a detailed audit framework that covers the entire leather supply chain. It includes four main audit types:
- Leather Manufacturer Audit (Flagship)
- Trader Audit
- Commissioning Manufacturer Audit
- Sub-contractor Audit
These audits ensure that every stage of leather production follows sustainable and responsible practices. The Leather Manufacturer Audit (P7) is the most detailed. It evaluates environmental systems, chemical management, labor conditions, traceability, and operational performance.
Scoring and Medal Ratings
LWG uses a medal rating system to evaluate performance. Each facility receives a score based on compliance with the audit criteria.
- Gold: 85–100%
- Silver: 75–84%
- Bronze: 65–74%
- Audited: 50–64%
Every section is scored separately, and the lowest score becomes the overall rating. This ensures all areas meet the required standards.
Key Areas of the LWG Audit
- General Facility Details: Basic company information is collected. This section is not scored.
- Subcontracted Operations: Details of subcontractors are reviewed. Their environmental performance affects the final rating.
- Social Audit: Labor conditions and employee welfare are evaluated. This will soon become mandatory.
- Operating Permits: Facilities must comply with local Saudi regulations. Any violations or penalties impact the audit score.
- Production Data: Information on raw materials and part-processed inputs is checked. Using LWG-certified suppliers improves scoring.
- Inbound Traceability: Raw material traceability is critical for transparency and sustainability.
- Outbound Traceability: Finished goods must be traceable throughout the supply chain.
- Environmental Management System (EMS): Facilities must maintain environmental policies, audits, and regular reviews.
- Chemical Management and Restricted Substances: Chemical usage, storage, and control—including CrVI (hexavalent chromium)—are evaluated.
- Energy and Water Consumption: Facilities must monitor and reduce energy and water use. Recycling and renewable energy are encouraged.
- Waste and Effluent Disposal: Effluent treatment, wastewater discharge, and waste handling must follow strict environmental standards.
- Emergency Preparedness, Health & Safety: Emergency plans, training, and safety measures are assessed.
- Operations Management: Best practices in housekeeping, process control, and production monitoring are reviewed.
Qdot Support for LWG Certification in Saudi Arabia
Qdot offers end-to-end consultancy for businesses seeking LWG Certification in Saudi Arabia. Our experts help you understand, implement, and maintain all LWG requirements.
Our Services Include:
- Gap Analysis: We identify non-conformities and improvement areas.
- Documentation Support: We prepare policies, permits, waste logs, SOPs, and chemical inventories.
- Training & Awareness: We conduct training on LWG standards, EMS, safety, and chemical handling.
- Implementation Assistance: We help establish monitoring systems for water, energy, waste, and chemicals.
- Pre-Audit Readiness: Mock audits help your facility aim for Gold or Silver ratings.
- Support during Certification: We guide you through the official LWG audit until certification is achieved.
Industries in Saudi Arabia Benefiting from LWG Certification
We serve industries including:
- Footwear & Apparel
- Automotive Leather
- Furniture & Interiors
- Luxury Fashion & Accessories
Why Choose Qdot for LWG Consultancy in Saudi Arabia?
- Experience: We have strong expertise in environmental and social compliance and deep knowledge of the LWG standards.
- Customized Solutions: We provide solutions tailored to your facility’s exact needs.
- Global Reach: Our international presence supports companies across multiple regions.
- Sustainability Commitment: We help businesses improve environmental responsibility and ethical sourcing.
- Ongoing Support: Our team continues to support your facility even after certification.
Contact Qdot:
Ready to start your LWG Certification journey in Saudi Arabia? Contact Qdot today. Our expert LWG consultants will guide you through every step to ensure full compliance with environmental and social standards.
📧 Email: info@isoqdot.com or Call/WhatsApp: +966 54 509 9175